“We found that many common life stressors were present in the period preceding the suicide, in relationship problems, financial and job issues, physical health concerns,” said Dr. Anne Shuchat, deputy director with the Centers for Disease Control.

Locally, suicide rates in Pennsylvania are up 34.3 percent, in New Jersey up 19.2 percent and in Delaware, there’s been almost a 6 percent increase.

Credit: CDC

Signs and symptoms to look for include isolation, agitation, anger, alcohol or drug use and changes in sleep patterns.

Experts say it’s important to have a conversation if you’re concerned about someone.

“Be quite direct and say, ‘I’m concerned about you, here’s what I’ve noticed,’ and if they’re expressing feelings of hopelessness, I would encourage anyone to ask the question: ‘When it gets that way for you, do you ever think of ending your life?’ And just like that, that will open up a space where they can talk about what’s really going on,” said Dr. Christine Moutier, chief medical officer with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.